Coping with Borderline Personality Disorder During College Years
Coping with Borderline Personality Disorder During College
Years
College can be an exciting yet overwhelming chapter in life. For students living with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), the challenges of academic pressure, social dynamics, and newfound independence can feel even more intense. The good news? With the right strategies and support, it’s possible to thrive during these years.
Understanding BPD in the College Context
BPD is a mental health condition characterized by emotional dysregulation, fear of abandonment, and difficulties with self-image and relationships. In college, these symptoms can be amplified by:
- Stressful transitions (moving away from home, adapting to new routines)
- Academic pressure
- Social uncertainty (forming friendships, dating)
- Lack of structure compared to high school
Recognizing these triggers is the first step toward managing them effectively.
Practical Coping Strategies
1. Build a Support Network
- Counseling Services: Seeking a counselor with the skills to provide support and resources. Look for counselors trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which is highly effective for BPD. Check out our counselors at Connected Counseling and how they can help.
- Peer Support Groups: Joining mental health clubs or online communities can help you feel less alone.
- Trusted Friends: Share your needs and boundaries with those you trust.
- Campus Group: Join a campus sport, hobby, or faith-based group to grow connections with those with the same values
2. Create Structure
- Daily Routines: Set consistent times for meals, classes, homework, and sleep.
- Planner or Apps: Use tools to organize assignments and deadlines. Have a study buddy to keep you accountable.
- Self-Care Blocks: Schedule time for relaxation, hobbies, and mindfulness.
3. Practice Emotional Regulation
- DBT Skills: Techniques like mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotion regulation can help manage intense feelings.
- Grounding Exercises: When overwhelmed, focus on sensory details (e.g., “What can I see, hear, feel right now?”).
- Name 5 things that you can see
- Name 4 things you can touch/feel
- Name 3 things you can hear
- Name 2 things you can smell or taste
- Name 1 positive affirmation you need to hear
- Journaling: Track triggers and coping successes.
4. Set Healthy Boundaries
- Communicate Clearly: Express needs without fear of rejection.
- Identify what you need and ask yourself how you would want this need communicated by a friend.
- Avoid Overdependence: Balance closeness with independence.
- Finding close friends is helpful, but a dependence on them can be more harmful.
- Recognize Red Flags: If a relationship feels unstable or harmful, seek support.
- Would you say or do these things to a friend? If someone is treating you poorly, communicate your needs. Create space if these boundaries are not respected.
5. Plan for Crisis Moments
- Emergency Contacts: Keep numbers for campus security, mental health hotlines, and trusted friends.
- Crisis Kit: Include calming items like a stress ball, soothing playlist, or affirmations.
- Know Your Resources: Familiarize yourself with local hospitals or crisis centers. (see below)
When to Seek Professional Help
If you experience persistent suicidal thoughts, severe self-harm urges, or feel unable to cope, reach out immediately:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.): 988
- Intensive Outpatient Center: St. Vincent Stress Center in Indianapolis is a wonderful option.
- Emergency Services: Dial 911 if in immediate danger
- Counseling Practices: Having a long-term, consistent therapist during the college years is very important for stability. Check out our counselors at Connected Counseling if you are looking for more help.
Final Thoughts
Living with BPD during college is challenging, but it’s not impossible. With the right tools, support, and self-compassion, you can navigate this period successfully. Remember: asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
